Juvenile Defense Attorney in Fairfax, Virginia
Committed to Protecting Futures
When a child is involved in the juvenile justice system, stress, uncertainty, and worry about the future can feel overwhelming. At Crowley Peritz Law, our juvenile defense team understands how much is at stake, and we take a proactive, compassionate approach to safeguarding your child’s rights, record, and, above all, their potential.
Understanding Juvenile Court in Fairfax, VA
In Virginia, minors (under age 18) who commit alleged offenses are typically processed in the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court (J&DR)—the Fairfax courthouse handles all juvenile delinquency, custody, and family-related matters. This court emphasizes rehabilitation, not punishment, and offers resources like counseling, probation, and diversion programs.
Juvenile Court Process at a Glance
Intake: Minor offenses may be handled informally or via a formal petition.
Detention Hearing (if applicable): Held within 72 hours to determine if your child must remain in custody.
Adjudication Hearing: Similar to an adult trial, but closed to the public. If found delinquent, the judge will decide on consequences based on a pre-disposition report.
Disposition: Outcomes range from informal warnings and community programs to probation, driver’s license restrictions, restitution, or placement in a Juvenile Detention Center, typically not exceeding six months.
Possibility of Adult Certification: Youth aged 14+ charged with serious felonies (like murder or aggravated assault) may be certified to circuit court for adult proceedings.
Appeals: Decisions from J&DR court can be appealed to circuit court, where cases are reviewed anew.
Why Juvenile Defense Matters
A juvenile adjudication, even without incarceration, can carry lasting consequences:
Criminal Record: Some outcomes become part of a public record, potentially affecting college applications, job prospects, and housing.
Driving Penalties: Offenses can lead to license suspension or delays in licensure.
Juvenile Detention & Treatment: Courts may order treatment, counseling, or secure placement, usually with access to education and behavioral programs.
Transfer to Adult Court: This may lead to harsher sentencing and long-term consequences.
How Crowley Peritz Law Defends Youth
1. Building Trust & Clarity
We explain court procedures clearly, empower youth to understand their rights, and guide families through each step, from intake to resolution.
2. Developing Tailored Strategies
Whether negotiating for diversion, school or community-based programs, or securing dismissals, our strategy is always customized.
3. Emphasizing Rehabilitation Over Punishment
We leverage Virginia’s system, designed to help, not penalize, youth. We advocate for outcomes like expungement, reduced supervision, or minimization of juvenile record.
4. Advocating Against Adult Certification
When cases involve serious charges, we fight to prevent your child from being tried as an adult, preserving their much more protective juvenile status.
5. Post-Adjudication Support
After resolution, we support the expungement process and help steer your child toward positive alternatives.
Real Support and Understanding
We nurture your child’s best outcome:
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Local Juvenile Court Experience—Deep experience in Fairfax J&DR procedures and judges.
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Whole-Family Approach—Sensitive support for parents navigating emotionally loaded situations.
- Restorative Focus—We push for community-based and educational alternatives rather than detention.
Juvenile Defense FAQs
What happens after my child is charged?
The case goes to Juvenile & Domestic Relations Court, which focuses on rehabilitation.
Can my child avoid juvenile court?
Yes. Minor cases may be diverted to programs like counseling or community service.
Can a juvenile be tried as an adult?
Yes, if 14+ and charged with serious felonies, the case may be transferred to adult court.
Will a juvenile record follow my child?
Most records are destroyed by age 19 if no further offenses, but serious felonies may stay longer.
Can records be expunged?
Yes, if charges were dismissed or your child was found not guilty.
The case goes to Juvenile & Domestic Relations Court, which focuses on rehabilitation.
Yes. Minor cases may be diverted to programs like counseling or community service.
Yes, if 14+ and charged with serious felonies, the case may be transferred to adult court.
Most records are destroyed by age 19 if no further offenses, but serious felonies may stay longer.
Yes, if charges were dismissed or your child was found not guilty.
Take Action
Every moment matters. If your child is involved in a juvenile matter, even just under investigation, delay can close off options.
Call Crowley Peritz Law at (571) 609-3306
Or Contact Us Online for a confidential, no-judgment case review.
We serve families across Fairfax, Arlington, Alexandria, Falls Church, Vienna, and the entire Northern Virginia region.
